Antler abnormalities with testicular atrophy in a wild roe deer (Capreolus pygargus): a case report
- Author:
Dayoung CHOI
1
;
Da-Ye NAM
;
Jae-Hoon KIM
;
Jinho JANG
;
Youngmin YUN
;
Ji-Youl JUNG
Author Information
- Publication Type:Case Report
- From:Korean Journal of Veterinary Research 2025;65(4):e28-
- CountryRepublic of Korea
- Language:English
- Abstract: Deer antlers are regenerate annually under hormonal control, particularly testosterone. Here, we report a case of antler deformity associated with testicular atrophy in a wild roe deer (Capreolus pygargus) in South Korea. Both antlers were abnormally enlarged and entangled in agricultural netting. Gross and histopathological examination revealed severe testicular atrophy, interstitial fibrosis, and hindlimb muscle necrosis. Serum testosterone was extremely low (0.032 ng/mL). These findings explain the abnormal antler growth and suggest susceptibility to capture myopathy due to hormonal imbalance. This is the first documented case in South Korea linking antler abnormalities to testicular atrophy in wild roe deer, highlighting the impact of endocrine disruption on cervid health.
